Nevada Boating Laws and Regulations

Age and Operator Restrictions

A person operating a personal watercraft (PWC) must be at least 14 years of age.

Additionally, a person operating a vessel that is towing a person on water skis, a surfboard, or any other device must be:

• At least 16 years of age or…
• At least 14 years of age and have on board a person at least 18 years of age in a position to supervise the operator.

Enforcement

Nevada law enforcement officers patrol the waterways to make your boating experience safe and pleasant. Cooperate with them by following the laws and guidelines.

Carry the Card: Vessel operators who are required to have a Boater Education Card must carry the card on board the vessel and have it available for inspection by an enforcement officer.

Penalty: Not carrying your Boater Education Card when one is required can result in a fine.

Reciprocity

For visiting boaters, all states, territories, and provinces will recognize boating education cards that meet NASBLA requirements and Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Cards that meet Transport Canada’s requirements. (This is known as “reciprocity.”)